Local Attractions

Rich in history and cultural activities, Tonbridge and the surrounding area offers a wide range of attractions to suit most interests.

Whether visiting Leeds Castle – acclaimed as one of the most beautiful castles in the world – or a leisurely round of golf before sampling some of the superb dining experiences the area offers, you can be sure of enjoying your time in and around Tonbridge.

Chartwell - Westerham

Tel: 01732 866368
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Bought by Sir Winston Churchill for its magnificent views over the Weald of Kent, Chartwell was his home and the place from which he drew inspiration from 1924 until the end of his life.

Emmetts Garden - Ide Hill

Tel: 01732 751509
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Charming Emmetts was an Edwardian estate owned by Frederick Lubbock and was a plantsman's passion and a much-loved family home. Influenced by William Robinson, the delightful garden was laid out in the late 19th century and contains many exotic and rare trees and shrubs from across the world.

Igtham Mote - Ivy Hatch

Tel: 01732 811145
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Nestling in a sunken valley, Ightham Mote, dating from 1320 with important later additions and alterations, is a rare example of a moated medieval manor house. An exhibition depicts the largest conservation project undertaken by the Trust, which was completed in 2004. Ightham Mote has many special features, including a Great Hall, crypt, Tudor chapel with a hand-painted ceiling and the apartments of the American donor Charles Henry Robinson.

Scotney Castle - Lamberhurst

Tel: 01892 893820
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Scotney is not one but two houses. At the top of the hill is the new house, designed by Anthony Salvin in Elizabethan style and built in 1837 for Edward Hussey III, who took the picturesque style as his inspiration. At the bottom of the valley are the romantic ruins of a medieval castle and moat.

Knole Park - Sevenoaks

Tel: 01732 450608
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Set at the heart of a timeless deer park, Knole has fascinating links with kings, queens and nobility, as well as literary connections with the novelists Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf. The house includes world-renowned rare furniture, important paintings and the prototype of the famous Knole settee

Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Tel: 01580 710701
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This internationally renowned garden was developed by Vita Sackville-West and Sir Harold Nicolson around the surviving parts of an Elizabethan mansion. It comprises small enclosed compartments, with colour throughout the season, resulting in an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

Hever Castle

Tel: 01732 865224
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Hever castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, boasts some simply beautiful grounds, which include elegant gardens, a moat, a fantastic maze as well as of course the spectacular castle itself."

The Pantiles - Tunbridge Wells

Tel: 01892 513839
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In the seventeenth century, royalty and gentry would visit the fashionable spa resort of Tunbridge Wells to taste the allegedly health-giving waters. Stroll through the famous white columns on the Upper Walk and admire the unique Georgian character. Marvel at the splendour of the Bath House and ‘take the waters’ in the summer. Go on a fascinating guided tour and listen to colourful stories about the gentry, their entertainers and musicians, a flamboyant dancer and the traditional ‘Dipper’.

Tonbridge Castle

Tel: 01732 770929
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Tonbridge boasts Kent's best example of a Motte-and-Bailey Gatehouse, and its mighty gatehouse is among the finest in England. Yet its glory lies not only in what can be seen. Its story is interwoven with that of kings and archbishops, tyrants and heroes, murderers and mercenaries who, on this ancient site and inside these weathered stone walls, have helped write 900 years of English history.

Tonbridge Waterways

Tel: 01732 360630
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Tonbridge pride themselves on supplying quality boating facilities located around the Tonbridge (River Medway), Bluewater, and Hever Castle areas.

Nizels Golf & Country Club - Hildenborough

Tel: 01732 833833
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Established in 1992, an historic estate that dates back to 1397, Nizels is situated on high ground overlooking Kentish Weald countryside. The golf course design is the epitome of a classic English parkland course. Complementing the course is a modern and friendly health & fitness club.

Penshurst Place

Tel: 01892 870307
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Penshurst Place is a beautiful historic building near Tonbridge in the Sevenoaks District of Kent. It is the ancestral home of the Sidney family, and the house and its gardens are open for public viewing.

Leeds Castle - Maidstone

Tel: 01622 765400
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Set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland, a visit to Leeds Castle in the garden of England is full of discovery. Open all year round, its special blend of heritage and history, glorious gardens, attractions, programme of events, and licensed restaurant make it the perfect choice for a day out.

High Rocks - Tunbridge Wells

Tel: 01892 515532
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The magnificent High Rocks are steeped in history dating back millions of years. Acres of breathtaking sandstone rocks interlinked with eleven bridges, provide a scenic walk in a tranquil woodland setting. The High rocks are also a popular, world renowned location for Rock climbing.

Howletts & Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

Tel: 01303 264647
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A perfect day out for adults and children alike. Choose from a visit to either Port Lympne or Howletts Wildlife Park, go on safari, or even book an overnight stay at Livingstone Lodge for the ultimate UK safari experience!